Summer in the Nordics got off to a slow start this year but, as ever, once it started it was like no other. The first event of the Nordic Gravel Series coincided nicely with the arrival of the summer season, when the nightless nights are at their finest. On a sunny Friday in late June, the sunny, lush green island of Kimito welcomed us to one of the best places for gravel riding in Finland. While the weather forecast promised the only rainy day of the week for the main day, we were fortunate to get warm summer conditions for the warm-up ride followed by sauna and beers. Not a bad way to start a summer weekend.

“Swim inside” sauna

Of course, one thing Finns love even more than coffee and ice swimming is having a sauna. Summer or winter, saunas are the place to be. As such, any self-respecting gravel event in Finland would not be complete without an authentic Finnish Sauna experience. This was well taken care of by the Nordic Gravel Series crew, who provided after-ride saunas after both the warm-up ride and the main ride. It was no standard sauna either for the Friday night; it was what’s called a smoke sauna, where you can swim in a river inside the sauna. That’s a real top class Finnish sauna experience, take it from me.

Kimitoön

With endless scenic countryside, perfect gravel tracks, small forest roads passing through wilderness-like forests, archipelago views and cozy cafes (admittedly, not that useful during the ride), this area stands out as one of the best spots for gravel riding in Finland. Time to spare after the event? Hop on a ferry and go to the nearby islands for a spin, new sights and lunch. 

Nordic Gravel Series

The name says it all - it’s a gravel event series that consists of gravel events in Finland, Sweden and Norway. If you haven’t been to Nordics yet, the Nordic Gravel Series is a reason to come. It’s not a timed race so you can choose yourself if want to ride at party pace or race pace. This year there’s still three more events, held over entire weekends with one left in each Nordic country. 

Nordic Summer

The never-ending summer days aka midnight sun is a real treat. While not always ideal for sleeping, it’s perfect for riding. Some think it’s cold in the Nordics year-around, but for those who are not fans of humid and hot conditions, then a Nordic summer is for you - it’s rarely too hot and rarely too cold. Occasionally we get proper downpours, like this year at the Nordic Gravel Series Kimito, but those are accepted as a welcome free facial treatment!